Roku to add Verizon's Redbox Instant streaming channel this summer

Verizon's Redbox Instant streaming app landed on Google TV this week and now Roku has announced plans to offer the service as well.

"We’re always working to bring Roku customers the best range and quality in streaming entertainment," announced Roku in a blog post on Thursday. "Redbox Instant by Verizon will arrive on the Roku platform this summer!"

The Redbox Instant by Verizon channel will be available on Roku 3, Roku 2, Roku LT models 2400 and 2450, Roku HD model 2500, and the Roku Streaming Stick. Redbox Instant subscribers will also have access to movies on Roku and the newest releases on-demand.

Redbox, a subsidiary of Coinstar, offers DVDs, Blu-ray discs and video games via automated retail kiosks, and it boasts a video-streaming service as a joint effort between Redbox and Verizon.

Redbox Instant by Verizon provides customers with an $8 a month unlimited streaming plan that includes four disc rentals from kiosks. All Redbox kiosk titles are available for purchase or rent under Redbox Instant.

Today's announcement is another notable move for Redbox Instant, as it is attempting to expand its reach and go against Netflix and other similar services. Redbox Instant is not available for first-generation Roku devices, but the service will still find a much wider customer base at its new home.

Élyse is Los Angeles-based and has a decade of journalism experience. She sticks to technology reporting, with a focus on Apple and Google-related news, and has worked in many forms of media, including newspapers and online. She also holds a MFA in creative writing and a BA in multimedia journalism.